Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC)
Overview
Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), also known as Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), stands as a cornerstone technique in the realm of polymer science and materials research. Its significance lies in its ability to elucidate the molecular intricacies of various polymers, from acrylic and styrenic polymers to a wide range of other polymer types. These polymers, spanning from low molecular weight (a few hundred) to high molecular weight (a few million), often find solubility in Tetrahydrofuran (THF).
At Outermost Technology, we recognize the diverse molecular weight ranges present in different polymers. To ensure accurate and reliable molecular weight measurements, our institute boasts a diverse array of GPC columns, tailored to address the specific needs of each polymer type. For instance, when dealing with polymers featuring adsorptive functional groups, we employ strategic approaches. This may involve the addition of suitable additives to the GPC eluent to reduce adsorption effects or selecting specialized columns designed to minimize adsorption.
Our commitment to precision and adaptability in GPC analysis empowers us to deliver dependable results for polymers across the spectrum. With Outermost Technology, you can trust in the accuracy of your molecular weight measurements, regardless of the polymer’s unique characteristics and challenges.
Services
- THF GPC
- CHCl3 GPC
- DMF GPC
- DMAc GPC
- NMP GPC
- HFIP GPC
- HT-GPC
- Aqueous GPC
- Customized GPC
Pricing
- Regular service: Starts from $400 per sample with 7 – 10 days turnaround.
- For a comprehensive overview of our pricing structure, please log in to the Bee Portal.
Equipment
Tosoh EcoSEC SEC/GPC System
- Instrument: EcoSEC HLC-8320 GPC
- Column (maker, model no.): 2 x TSKgel SupermultiporeHZ-M + TSKgel SuperHZ-2500
- Eluent: THF
- Temperature: 40 ℃
- Flow rate: 0.35 mL/min
- Injection volume, sample concentration: 30µL, 3 mg/mL
- Standard: Polystyrene
- Detector: UV (270 nm)
FAQ
A: GPC, or Gel Permeation Chromatography, is an analytical technique used to measure the molecular weight distribution of polymers. It separates polymer molecules based on their size (molecular weight) and provides insights into the polymer’s average molecular weight, polydispersity, and more.
A: GPC relies on a column filled with porous gel beads. Polymer molecules are injected into the column, and they travel through the gel matrix. Smaller molecules can penetrate the pores and take longer to travel through the column, while larger molecules are excluded and pass through more quickly. This separation by size allows for molecular weight analysis.
A: Outsourcing GPC analysis to a specialized laboratory ensures access to state-of-the-art equipment, expertise, and a variety of GPC columns tailored to different polymer types. This can result in more accurate and reliable results, saving time and resources for researchers and industries.
A: GPC is suitable for analyzing a wide range of polymers, including acrylics, styrenics, polyethylene, polypropylene, and more. It can accommodate polymers with molecular weights ranging from a few hundred to several million.
A: The duration of a GPC analysis can vary but usually takes several hours per sample. The required sample size depends on the specific GPC instrument and columns used but typically ranges from a few milligrams to several milligrams of polymer.
A: GPC is crucial because it provides detailed information about a polymer’s molecular weight distribution. Understanding this distribution is essential for controlling the properties and performance of polymers in various applications, such as plastics, coatings, and adhesives.
A: GPC analysis yields several important parameters, such as number-average molecular weight (Mn), weight-average molecular weight (Mw), polydispersity index (PDI), molecular weight distribution curves. These parameters offer insights into a polymer’s overall characteristics.
A: Polymers with adsorptive functional groups can interact with the column, potentially leading to inaccuracies. To address this, additives may be introduced to the GPC eluent to reduce adsorption. Additionally, specialized columns designed to minimize adsorption can be used.
A: Yes, GPC is commonly used for quality control in industries where polymer products are manufactured. It helps ensure that the produced polymers meet specified molecular weight distribution requirements, which directly impact product performance.
A: Yes, GPC analysis is versatile and applicable in both research and industrial settings. Researchers use it to study polymer properties, while industries use it for quality control and ensuring product consistency.